Jai McDowallWin tickets to see the Britain’s Got Talent

winner perform at the Church Hill Theatre!

morningsidelivingISSUE 2 ■ WINTER 2013/14

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Find out how your business or organisation can benefit from advertising!Email livingmag@email.comADVERTISING DEADLINE FOR SPRING 2014 EDITION: FRIDAY 7 FEBRUARY

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WINVIP TICKETS TO SEE

JAI MCDOWALLWe have two pairs of VIP tickets to Jai McDowall’s

Christmas Party to give away! The prize includes two tickets to the Church Hill Theatre and a pre-show

meet and greet with the Britain’s Got Talent winner.

To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is tell us what your favourite Christmas song is and why. Just email your answer along with your

name, address and contact telephone number to livingmag@email.com with ‘Competition Entry’ in the subject line. The competition closes on Tuesday 10 December and the winner will be picked at random

and notified by telephone. Good luck!

ContentsISSUE 2 ■ WINTER 2013/14

36EH10 PROPERTY

Willie Hunter of Hunters Residential explains how Morningsiders are in a

strong position with their property

33WINTER AT THE WHEEL

Take an ‘adverse weather conditions’ driving course to help you deal with winter at the wheel

10GROWLER BEERS

Entrepreneur Stuart Dinning brings pub-fresh beers and ciders into your

home with his new Morningside shop

22MORE MOBILE MUMS!

We run a ‘tried and tested’ examination of baby slings, the

answer to your buggy problems!

26HEALTHY TO THE COREFitness classes for those aged

50 and older, as well as pilates sessions to improve your posture

28A WHITE CHRISTMAS

Teeth whitening can not only boost confidence in your smile but help

you prepare for party season

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Editor’s NotesHello and welcome to the winter edition of Morningside Living!

We’ve been incredibly busy since the launch of the magazine in September and have been delighted with the response from our

readers and advertisers.We were particularly humbled to hear that staff at The Open Door believe that the feature we published about their Morningside Road cafe and care provider contributed to a 20 per cent increase in profits and four new volunteering enquiries. As a local magazine run by local people, making a difference to businesses and charities in the area is at the heart of what we do and we couldn’t be more pleased to hear this fantastic news. In this issue, we have plenty more exciting articles to keep you entertained during the long winter nights.Turn to page 8 to read all about our cover star Jai McDowall, the former Britain’s Got Talent winner who is looking forward to performing at the Church Hill Theatre. We are doubly excited about Jai’s performance due to the fact we have two pairs of tickets for the show to give away to lucky readers, with details on how to enter on the same page.We have plenty of inspiration on where to source some special Christmas food from local businesses on pages 16-20.If going out is more your thing, don’t forget to check out our reliable What’s On guide for the best Christmas and New Year events in the area.We hope you enjoy the festive period and enjoy the seasonal content throughout Issue 2!

Amy Anderson, Editor

Morningside Living is a community lifestyle magazine whose aim is to enrich the lives of local people by educating and informing them of events, services and businesses in the area.The publication, produced by local residents, enables affordable advertising for Morningside businesses and seeks to promote local produce, innovation and enterprise wherever possible.

Published by Matchday Media Scotland (Company No. 357554)

ADVERTISING, EDITORIAL & DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIESTelephone07512 994 557Emaillivingmag@email.com

ONLINEFacebook.com/morningsidelivingTwitter@morningsidemag

ISSUE 2 PRODUCTIONEditorialAmy AndersonLindsay AndersonRuth Jeffery

Photography / ImagesMichael DennistounGeorge Ward

PRINTGraphic Impressions Colour Printers,Unit 27/2,Hardengreen Industrial Estate, Eskbank,Dalkeith,Midlothian,EH22 3NX.www.giprinting.co.uk0131 654 0521

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This column would normally be dedicated to local hidden gems, however we decided in this edition to mark a momentous occasion for Morningside Living, namely a mention of the publication in Parliament by Edinburgh South MSP Jim Eadie.Jim, pictured above during my visit to meet with him, was very complimentary about the launch edition of our new community lifestyle magazine. He raised a motion that stated that the Scottish Parliament welcomes the launch of the magazine as it successfully showcases all of the great aspects of the Morningside community. He went on to commend the fact that it is produced by residents for residents. Thanks, Jim!

ISSUE 2 ■ WINTER 2013/14

NEW TO ME...Scottish Parliament

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WHAT’S ON...

Derek AcorahThe Church Hill Theatre hosts his Eternal Spirits Tour

+ Jai McDowallWin tickets to see the Britain’s Got Talent winner!

Tree lightsJames Naughtie will turn on Morningside’s Christmas lights

Art and craftPlenty of choice for both stallholders and buyers »

If you have a fascination with the afterlife, get yourself along to The Church Hill Theatre on Tuesday 26 November for Derek Acorah: The Eternal Spirits Tour. The unique show will see Most Haunted’s famous spirit medium attempting to communicate messages from beyond the grave to his audience. Tickets cost £19.50 each and are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Sparkle ArtsWith many classes for kids focusing on either drama, singing, or dance, Sparkle Arts, run by Morningsider Dayle Connell, brings all performing arts under one roof at Myreside Pavilion.A major attraction for parents is that a key element of classes is educational, with children aged 1-5 using the joy of the ‘stage’ to learn facts about the

world. With ample parking available at the venue, located just a two-minute drive from Morningside Road, make learning fun for your kids this winter!For more information on Sparkle Arts and class times, turn to our feature with Dayle on pages 20-21.sparklearts.co.uk

Christmas lights switch-onKick off the festive season in style by attending the Morningside Christmas light switch-on on Thursday 5 December. Mince pies and mulled will be served from 6pm before the tree is lit by radio and TV personality James Naughtie at 7pm.Choirs from Morningside Primary School and St Pete’s will sing Christmas carols whilst music will be provided by the Salvation Army band and Morningside Youth Pipe Band. Father Christmas will also be there!

Panto at Church HillBalerno Theatre Company (BTC) will present ‘A Christmas Carol - The Pantomime’ at the Church Hill Theatre in Morningside from December 4-7, with tickets priced £12 for adults and £10 for concessions. Evening performances run each day from 7.30pm, and a Saturday matinee begins at 2pm. Tickets are available online at the BTC website or by calling 07932 053 707.balernotheatrecompany.co.uk

Santa’s Grotto at fairGet in the festive spirit by popping along to the Eric Liddell Centre’s Christmas Food and Craft Fair on Wednesday 4 December. There will be a Santa’s Grotto and face painting for the little ones, with all proceeds going to the Eric Liddell Centre. There will also be several stalls selling unique items and live music. The fun starts at 6pm and entry is only £1!ericliddell.org

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WHAT’S ON FOR KIDS

Rocking around the Christmas tree...Despite the fact he has performed in front of The Queen and Simon Cowell, former Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall is still feeling nervous about his upcoming Christmas concert in Morningside.“I care so much about singing that I get nervous before every show I do,” explains the Scottish singer, who is set to perform at The Church Hill Theatre on Saturday 15 December as part of his Ultimate Christmas Party tour.“My nerves used to be a lot worse and I would end up pacing around my dressing room beforehand. On this tour, I’m going to have a live band and a choir performing with me so I think having them there will help to calm me down.”Despite battling his nerves, the singer (who triumphed on the hit show in 2011 after over 4 million people voted for him to win) is looking forward to the performance. “I’m really excited about doing a Christmas tour,” he says. “The shows aren’t going to be too serious – they’re all about both the audience and myself having fun whilst getting into the Christmas spirit.“It will be one big, happy sing-along. I might even have to crack out a Christmas jumper for the occasion!”Performing at local venues is something that has always been incredibly important to Jai. “I’m from Tarbolton in Ayrshire and we never really have that many people coming here to perform,” explains the 27-year-old. “Personally, I really enjoying playing intimate shows as they allow me to

connect with the audience and have a good time. I think doing local shows gives people an excuse to have a fun night out, especially at Christmas time.”Jai, who is often compared to superstar Susan Boyle due to their similar voices, says his favourite Christmas song of all

time is a cover version of Oh Holy Night by Celine Dion and Josh Groban. “I like all the classic cheesy Christmas tracks too, but their version of Holy Night is really uplifting and gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling inside,” he smiles. “I was once lucky enough to perform alongside Josh Groban at his gig in Glasgow which was an incredible moment for me as he’s my idol.”Although the Ultimate Christmas Party will primarily consist of Christmas tunes, Jai will also be performing his own music. “I’m really excited to perform my new single, Fall Back Down as it is the

first song I have co-written,” reveals Jai.“It’s about when you’re in a relationship with someone and, for one reason or another, they think that they’re more important than you. It’s inspired by both relationships I’ve had in the past and experiences that my friends and family have had. I can’t wait to see how the audience react to it being performed live.”Jai McDowell’s Ultimate Christmas Party is on at The Church Hill Theatre on Saturday 15 December. Tickets, priced from £17.50, are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk or on 0844 499 9990.

WHAT’S ON

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Spring Fling call for stallsThe South Edinburgh Arts Fair Association are seeking local arts organisations, groups and classes which cater to older people in the Morningside community to take part in Spring Fling 2014.The free event takes place at the Eric Liddell Centre on Saturday 12 April (10am-3pm).Those interested in having a stall at the event should email seafa@hotmail.co.uk or call 0131 667 6993 for more details.

SH GalleryIf you’re looking to impress that special someone with a unique Christmas gift, then it’s worth popping in to SH Jewellery on Morningside Road, where there is a huge range of distinctive jewellery collections from around 35 specially selected designers, alongside owner Sarah Hutchison’s own designs. With prices starting from as little £25, you are bound to find the ideal gift in this local boutique jewellery store.shjgallery.com

Event at Space ArtworksThe Birds and Beasties art exhibition is running at Space Artworks on Morningside Road until Tuesday 24 December. The exhibition will showcase original arts and crafts from local artists and makers. Space Artworks is a social enterprise which supports local artists with long-term health issues and those who produce environmentally friendly crafts. The venue also offers community skills workshops in sewing, painting and crafts. spaceartworks.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

Bring beer home...Meet the man bringing cask beer to your living room

+ Christmas foodWhy Morningsiders will be chomping on cheese this winter

La FavoritaAnd the winner of the Best Pizza award goes to...

Hotel livingThe Braid Hills Hotel boasts a great Christmas menu »

As in the development of many good ideas, there was alcohol involved. As with

other successful innovations, it was centred around a variation on a theme, a tweak of an already-popular product.The only surprise is that, in a beer-loving nation such as ours, huge refillable glass bottles of ale had never previously graced our high streets. Now, thanks to local entrepreneur Stuart Dinning, Morningside Road is at the forefront of a revolution.It all began with a trip to the ‘liquor store’ with his American girlfriend in Atlanta, Georgia.“We were going to a party one night and had to get some beers on the way, so she took me to the growler shop,” explains Stuart. “People were taking their bottles - or ‘growlers’ - into the shop and filling them up for house parties. I thought, ‘This is brilliant!’ and considered how it might work in the UK. In the

next few days, I researched it and found no-one had done anything like it over here. You had cider presses and some breweries that allowed people to visit and fill up containers, but nothing else.”

As a result of his fascination with the idea and subsequent hard work in implementing something similar, Stuart recently opened the doors of 229 Morningside Road to a new experience to be savoured by beer and cider aficionados.With four cask beers (real ales) changed every 3-5 days, as well as seven kegs of craft beers that

can be changed as often as every two hours, lovers of ‘real’ beer can keep on coming back to fill their ‘Growlers’ with new delights on a regular basis.Stuart is flexible in his approach, not only in responding to customer feedback but by changing his stock with the seasons. Over winter, Morningside’s beer lovers will have their cockles warmed by a range of seasonal beers.“In summer, we’ll stock light and refreshing beers, whereas at this time of year it makes sense to have on tap darker beers that are warm and smoky.“As ever, we’ll also be able to offer certain beers before they’ve even been officially launched.”“We have some set lines, for example we will always have beers from Tempest Brewery (Kelso), Eden Brewery (St Andrews), and Growler Brewery (Essex), and Thistly Cross (East Lothian) always have two cider lines.

A new kind of

home brew

Have your favourite beers

poured straight from the

cask and take them home!

“I can offer pub-fresh beer with the option to stay at home”

— Stuart Dinning

FOOD & DRINK

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“What we stock can depend on what’s available at the time and also which requests we receive from our customers, such as the Spitfire we brought in recently after one guy asked for it. At other times, we will stock a beer based purely on its name: I thought Wobbly Bob, at 6 per cent, would be popular. The rest of the time, we bring in beers based purely on the reputation of the brewery.”The idea of a business based on growlers (the bottles are so-called due to the low droning sound produced by air bubbles escaping past the stopper) was brought to life in Bruntsfield in the 1980s, but the shop closed after just six months.Since opening for

business in early-Autumn 2013, however, Stuart has seen few quiet moments at his modest Morningside premises.

“It’s been really well-received,” he says. “I don’t want to take anything away from the traditional pub - this is a different

experience.“I can offer pub-fresh beer with the option to stay at home. I’m happy to offer real beer and cider to people who only drink mainstream brands. For those used to the pub experience and quality beer, I’m their off-licence.”Growler Beers, 229 Morningside Road, is open on Monday -Tuesday, 1-9pm; Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 12-9pm. For more information, visit www.growlerbeersuk.com

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For the pizza lover, the Morningside menu comprises a host of choices. For the pizza

connoisseur, however, there is only one nutritious and delicious option available - a La Favorita pizza.There is no novice chef, no off-the-shelf dough, no run-of-the-mill toppings behind these special pizzas, only well-trained experts who handcraft each meal using only the finest ingredients.Well before it reaches your delivery box at La Favorita on Morningside Road, your pizza’s journey begins at a mill in Brescia in northern Italy’s Lombardy region. Enrico Fama, a pizza guru who oversees production at La Favorita, explains that, from the milled flour used for the dough to the topping and garnish, there is no compromise in terms of finance or time as the lovingly-made pizza takes shape.“We always use the best ingredients,

which means we can truly claim to make the Best Pizza,” says Enrico, who developed a flour for La Favorita that no other pizzeria in the world uses..“Our secret flour is made using natural yeast, so no chemicals. The smell and the taste is better. Our fathers used natural yeast to make pizza, but nowadays people use 100 per cent commercial yeast because they don’t want to wait for their pizza. We also use a third less gluten in our dough due to the natural yeast. We allow the dough to rise slowly, and only after 24 hours is it given to the chef. The dough is then left for at least a further eight hours before use. The flour and the method used to make the dough means La Favorita can offer customers a healthy and more digestible pizza.The yeast used also bodes well for that favourite of weekend morning treats, the cold pizza. Even after it

has cooled, pizza made with this type of yeast won’t cause your stomach to bloat. The dough won’t produce a salt attack in the middle of the night or force you to get up for a drink of water due to thirst.“This type of dough also take less time to digest.” adds Tony Crolla, chairman of La Favorita Delivered There’s nothing worse than having a slab of dough sitting in your stomach.”The La Favorita philosophy of “innovation, not imitation”, as Tony puts it, extends to the remaining fundamental ingredients, too.He says: “Provenance is very important to us - we work hard at sourcing the finest ingredients from the best suppliers.“They may cost more, but we only use San Marzano plum tomatoes - not concentrated tomatoes - and they are low in acidity.

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Best pizza bar noneOrder yours today from La Favorita Morningside

FOOD & DRINK

“Our mozzarella is fresh and milky - because it’s made from fresh milk! That’s unlike a lot of other places, where they use powdered milk, and it means ours has a shorter shelf-life.With fresh meat, fish, and vegetables completing a sumptuous recipe, the pizza is then heated in one of La Favorita’s flavoursome and character-filled ovens. It is the only business in Edinburgh that uses refractory stone wood-fuelled ovens across multiple premises, a further commitment to that homemade flavour.When delivered, all hot foods are kept at the optimum temperature - which is hot, not lukewarm - thanks to a heat bag connected to the car engine in each delivery vehicle.All of which means La Favorita’s pastas, lasagnes, and pizzas are guaranteed to not only taste great but arrive at your door freshly made and piping hot.

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Best pizza bar noneOrder yours today from La Favorita Morningside

Christmas fareA look at the festive culinary treats available locally

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FOOD & DRINKCHRISTMAS TT

Morningside is something of a mecca for niche eateries, restaurants, and

delicatessens. Foodies and diners come from far and wide to experience the fare on offer at places such as La Favorita, Nonna’s Kitchen, Henri’s delicatessen, and the famed purveyor of cheese I.J. Mellis. It is fortunate also that one of the few local hotels, the Best Western Braid Hills, is set in a beautiful location and boasts a top-notch restaurant.All of which means that Morningsiders are spoilt for choice when it comes to preparing that special seasonal menu and savouring every last mouthful of the type of food that only

comes round once a year.At La Favorita, the Christmas Pizza (pictured, above) is surely the model for all such creations that follow it. It brings together a fusion of San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, turkey, sliced potato, red onion,

pancetta, and Italian sausage, and is topped with sweet cranberry sauce and freshly-cut sage.Richer delights such as melanzane parmigiana and arancini, not to mention the decadent torta cioccolato, will warm the hearts of diners at Nonna’s.Baby stiltons are a Christmas staple for customers at Mellis on Morningside Road, where those in search of an accompaniment for any dish or drink will not be left searching.But, if the thought of preparing any meals at this time of year is a turn-off, simply book your table at the Braid Hills Hotel for Christmas Day!

When our family is all at home for Christmas, we would traditionally eat

quite a lot, served over quite a few courses.“We would start with antipasti, then would have some shell fish, then lasagne with small meatballs, egg and salami in it (my mums version is legendary) then for main course beef. After all that I can’t remember having room for pudding but I’m sure there will have been one or two served.“At this time of year, we sell a lot of great drinks and wine to all the Christmas parties we cater for at the restaurant. Prosecco is a great seller, and Aperol Spritz is proving to be very popular these days but is generally more of a summertime drink.“In terms of dishes, it’s hard to single one out, but, when the weather is a touch colder, certain richer dishes are better received. In winter, starters like melanzane parmigiana (aubergine sliced, tossed in parmesan cheese and egg, fried then baked in tomato and mozzarella), arancini (rice balls made with smoked scamorza and parmesan) and chunky soups (minestrone, smoked haddock, potato and cream) all prove to be very popular.

“For main courses, things like salsiccia con broccoli (sausages with crushed potatoes and broccoli), lasagne di Nonna (similar to the one I mentioned

for Christmas) and linguine with tiger prawns in chopped tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil and chilli all go well.“We have many decadent desserts which are popular at this time of year, but my standout dish is our rich torta cioccolato (pictured, below), a chocolate torte with a mousse-like consistency with Disaronno through it on an amaretto biscuit base. Served with freshly whipped cream and Di Rollo’s vanilla ice cream, there’s very rarely much left on the plate.“We don’t alter the menu to be festive but again some richer, warmer comfort foods will be added to the specials to keep all of Morningside’s weary shoppers going after facing the rigours of Edinburgh’s shopping areas.”

CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR...

INDULGENT ITALIAN FOODBy Gino Stornaiuolo, Nonna’s Kitchen

CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR...

A SOUPÇON OF SOMETHING FRENCH

L’arome de fromage will continue to welcome customers into a Morningside

Road cellar of French culinary specialities and vineyard delicacies.The emphasis at Henri’s Delicatessen is on quality rather than quantity, explains shop assistant Andrew Bastow, so shoppers can be certain of encountering shelves of products uncharted by many Morningsiders

and refreshingly unique to the local palette. The most exciting part is that the stock is refreshed, in parts, in time for Christmas.“We have different seasonal cheeses and tend at Christmas time to sell quite a lot of Vacherin Mont d’Or, which can be roasted with garlic and white wine, served with vegetables or bread like a fondue, and accompanied by salami,” says Andrew. “A cheese called Comté

we normally sell aged 12 months, but at Christmas we bring in some extra mature 24- and 36-month-old cheese, which is lovely. Recently, we got in a batch from Joseph Paccard of 24-month-old Beaufort, in which we tend to get more interest at this time of year.”Champagne and prosecco, as well as wine sourced directly from the producers - 95 per cent of it French and most of it organic - is on hand to accompany the vast array of cheeses, as is a special Christmas Chutney that Henri’s stocks only during the festive season.

“Richer dishes are popular in winter”— Gino Stornaiuolo

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0131 447 8888

bookings@braidhillshotel.co.uk

CALL NOW TO BOOKChristmas Party Nights ● Christmas Lunches ● Christmas Day ● WeddingsMeetings ● Conferences ● Private lunches & dinners ● Funeral gatherings

FOOD & DRINKCHRISTMAS TT

CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR...

DOING WITHOUT THE HASSLE

The Best Western Braid Hills Hotel is launching mouth-watering festive menus that have been put together by our Head Chef Greg Skelton.

All ingredients are sourced fresh from local suppliers to bring you the best of Christmas festive flavours.Why not savour the lush surroundings of the Braid Hills Hotel and soak up the festive atmosphere whilst enjoying a scrumptious Christmas lunch? You may even decide to make an evening of it and attend or host your Christmas party in the unique setting of the Comiston Suite and Gathering Bar. Festive menus run on selected dates from Sunday 1 December until December 24, offering the perfect opportunity for a family get-together or an evening out with friends and colleagues.Lunches start from £17 per adult and an evening party menu starts from £25 per person. Christmas Day bookings are available at £25 per child and £65 per adult.To enquire about dates or to make a booking contact our Events Manager on 0131 447 8888.

CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR...

THE KING OF COMFORT FOOD: CHEESEBy Ruth Jeffery

In the heart of Morningside is I.J. Mellis, a cheesemonger providing a truly unique

service. The company this year celebrates its 20th anniversary, and with six shops across Scotland it is proof that independent businesses can survive in an era dominated by supermarkets.The shop sells artisan farmhouse cheeses sourced by Iain Mellis himself, as well as a wide range of meat, chutneys, oatcakes and more.A visit to the store is an assault on the senses. The towering stacks of cheese and hanging meats are a treat for the eyes and nose, a reminder that fresh produce really is best. Apples from Brogdale Farm in Kent are scattered around the shop next to fresh eggs from Gosford Farm and Barry’s teabags from Ireland. This is an eclectic mix of the best in farmhouse and local wares.Mellis are preparing for the festive season with additional Christmas stock, a reason for cheese-lovers to be cheerful despite the winter weather. Baby stiltons are a key Christmas cheese and manager of Mellis Morningside, Mark Thorne explains why he will definitely have one on his Christmas cheeseboard:“It’s creamy, it’s strong tasting and warming and when I eat it, it makes me think of Charles Dickens’ Christmas Carol,” says Mark. “It has that kind of old-school British flavour. People need to pre-order them because it’s almost certain they’ll sell out.”Unique to Mellis is another miniature cheese, the baby smoked Lancashire. Made especially for Mellis, this cheese is sure to be popular. Mark says: “Smoked cheeses are a must on

every Christmas cheese board, and the smoked Lancashire’s best friend is a good Scottish whisky.”If smoked or blue cheeses aren’t your bag, fear not. Mellis will also be selling baby keens cheddar from England, a lovely

rich cheese that works well with a robust red wine. Mark explains why ‘baby’ cheeses are so perfect at Christmas: “They’re great as a gift and often they’re wrapped in wax which means they’ll last a bit longer. They’re pretty much the exact right size serving for a cheeseboard. And we’re also doing a marc de raisin, which is basically a tomme de savoie soaked in marc grapes. The grapes turn into raisins and it’s a really lovely festive cheese.”Another seasonal cheese which is in stock now is the Vacherin Mont d’Or, available by the

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slice or in baby form. Termed the ‘winter brie’, this cheese hails from the French Alps and is only made during three months of the year. When the first Vacherin is matured and the cows are brought down from the pastures, the villages in the Alps hold a festival. The ensuing celebrations give a new meaning to the term ‘when the cows come home.’ Mark recommends cooking baby Vacherin in the oven with white wine and garlic and serving with a glass of crisp champagne.As if all this festiveness isn’t enough, the store is introducing a range of nuts from Potash Farm in Kent. Christmassy? Mark says: “Chesnuts roasting on an open fire is about as festive as stilton and port. We’re going to sell chestnuts, cognuts and walnuts out of the front of the shop with our Broagdale apples, and people can pick as much or as little as they want.”

A product that has been causing a stir in the Morningside community is Stornoway black pudding, unique in the area to Mellis and a huge success. Mark explains the philosophy behind the meat. He says: “The idea is that we want people to get tomorrow’s breakfast today at I.J. Mellis Morningside, so we’re trying to basically sell some Scottish fare.“So we have Stornoway black pudding, Fifeshire Puddledub bacon, smoked and unsmoked. We have Cherubini’s plain and spicy Italian sausages which are made in Glasgow, as well as smoked salmon, bread, eggs and porridge.”Whilst cheese is still the main focus at Mellis, there is plenty of other excitement in the store this Christmas. Whether your cup of tea is organic porridge, chestnuts, chutneys or plain Irish teabags, Mellis has something for everyone this festive season.

“Smoked cheese is a must at Christmas time”

— Mark Thorne

FOOD & DRINKCHRISTMAS TT

PURVEYORS OF FINE FARMHOUSE AND ARTISAN CHEESESOur friendly, knowledgeable staff will help you to create a festive cheeseboard to remember from our excellent selection of Scottish and Continental cheeses. Take your cheeseboard home in one of our

special Christmas gift boxes. Sample any cheese before you buy!

Cheese wedding/celebration cake service available. Lots of stocking filler ideas, including gift vouchers!

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

330 Morningside Road, Edinburgh, EH10 4QJ ■ 0131 447 8889 ■ morningside@mellischeese.co.uk

SHOPPING & LIFESTYLE

Ditch the buggy!How slings can transform the life of an on-the-go mum

+ Sparkle ArtsMake learning fun for your child with local arts classes

YakkingConverse in foreign languages at a host of city locations

Must Be SpanishClasses en español at Morningside’s Open Door cafe »

Making the choice of a fun activity where your child can thrive

represents a tough decision for many parents. Seven years ago, local entrepreneur and performing arts specialist Dayle Connell aimed to provide a simple answer, with thousands of happy kids since experiencing the freedom of expression with an educational twist that only Sparkle Arts can provide.“A lot of classes elsewhere may focus on either drama, singing, or dance, but we use all three elements over four ten-week terms, to bring 40 different subjects to life using props, costumes, puppets and musical instruments,” explains Dayle, who began running classes in 2006.“Morningside is really where Sparkle Arts began because

Bring out their sparkle!Make learning fun for your child

I worked with local nursery children there initially.”The universal appeal of Dayle’s unique brand of stage-meets-classroom lessons lies in the variety and freshness offered to children as well as the convenience available to their parents.“I have a two-year-old boy, and I realise what mums want,” explains Dayle.“We choose venues where you can park easily and get a coffee. A real plus is that classes can be booked individually rather than for a term, which allows flexibility for parents.“It’s so popular with boys and girls. They love it because we are using such interesting topics

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and because we focus on on a different educational topic each week.”With her classes held at Myreside Pavilion, the George Watson’s College sports base located just off Myreside Road, Dayle has, in a sense, come full circle. A former Watson’s student while living in the family home at Braid Avenue, she went on to complete a performing arts degree at Middlesex University and a diploma at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London.Blackford Hill and The Canny Man’s pub — not to mention proximity to her parents — represented part of the allure of ‘coming home’, but Dayle’s professional ambitions proved the deal-breaker.“I always wanted to come back to Edinburgh and, from a young age, always wanted to have my own school,” she says. “If I didn’t go into performing arts, I would have been a primary teacher. Now, I’ve managed to bring the two together.“After graduating, I performed in musical theatre in London over ten years. During that time, I taught children and, through that experience, I decided I’d like to start my own business.“I came back and started Sparkle Arts. It started as just me on a part-time basis, and we have moved from dealing in just nurseries to primary schools. The new curriculum we have written is being taught in schools during class time, bringing social subjects to life, such as the Vikings, the Egyptians, and the history of toys.“The syllabus is written by me and the teachers, who are all from a performing arts background, follow that. That sets us apart from our competitors.“Other than that, it’s important for me to educate — every class is designed to teach a particular subject matter. For children, acting something out, and

SHOPPING & LIFESTYLE

using the imagination to bring a subject to life, helps build knowledge, but also improves understanding, confidence, and creative expression. That’s what makes Sparkle Arts so special.”Dayle’s local success story is spreading, with Sparkle

Arts classes now being run throughout Edinburgh, East Lothian, Fife, and Glasgow.The Sparkle Arts name is also set to become available as a franchise opportunity in 2014.For more information and to book classes, go to www.sparklearts.co.uk

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CLASSES AT MYRESIDE PAVILIONMONDAYAge 1-2: 10amAge 2-5: 10.35am & 2pmWEDNESDAYAge 2-5: 10am, 11am, & 2pm

THURSDAYAge 2-5: 10.35amFRIDAYAge 2-5: 10am, 11am

10% OFF SPARKLE ARTS CLASSES!Readers of Morningside Living can gain a 10 per cent discount on bookings for parent and

child classes at Myreside!

Simply enter the discount code “Morningside” when booking at www.sparklearts.co.uk

Offer expires on January 31

Carry with confidence!

Personal shopping by appointment in Morningside.

Sling Hire & Online Saleswww.showmeslings.co.uk

susan@showmeslings.co.uk ■ 07785 742 778

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I’ve found one of the most difficult things about being a new mother-of-two is getting around easily. Even just popping to the supermarket with a buggy and toddler in

tow has somehow morphed into a nightmare-like challenge that I now have to psych myself up into doing!After a particularly frustrating experience of trying to use public transport with a pushchair and my three-year-old son with me, I decided to book myself in for a private shopping appointment with Susan Ansell, owner of ShowMe Slings.I’d heard a lot about the benefits of using a baby carrier from a friend of mine and fancied trying one out for myself. I loved the idea of being able to have my hands and arms free whilst carrying around my daughter but, with so many different options available online, I didn’t have a clue where to start.My one-hour appointment, which took place at Susan’s flat in Comiston Gardens, was laid back yet professional and she had a huge variety of different baby carriers for me to choose from. As she is also a mum, she completely understands the daily struggles of parenthood and was able to offer me some really helpful advice. For example, I never realised that baby carriers are like shoes in that brands that fit one person really well don’t necessarily fit the next person. This means it’s incredibly important to try before you buy as it helps you

to find the one that is best suited to your shape. As slings are an investment, I decided to rent one for a fortnight for a small fee to ensure that I had made the right choice. Susan gave me an easy-to-follow demonstration on how to put it on and I left feeling incredibly confident with it.Since using the sling, taking my children out has become much more enjoyable. My daughter loves being snuggled up close to me and I love having the freedom to play with my son without having to keep a hold of her pram. I’m nowofficially a sling convert! By Lindsay Anderson

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Making you and baby more mobile

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SHOPPING & LIFESTYLE

Reaching for a French dictionary is normally an act of pre-summer holidays: with

a scheduled trip across the Channel, it signals last-minute cramming in preparation for putting into practice those versatile phrases first heard at school. “Ou est la piscine?” and “J’aime faire du patinage” are just a couple that seem to come in handy… at no point of any visit to Gallic shores.Because visits abroad to one particular country will prove, for most Morningside travellers, intermittent over the years, picking up a phrasebook to re-learn all you have forgotten since either your last visit or your previous modern languages class seems something of a futile exercise.However, even if you have lost touch with your foreign school ‘pen pal’ and you cannot count native speakers of that language among your circle of friends or family, a fun and affordable way of ‘topping up’ your foreign

language vocabulary is close at hand.Yakety Yak represents a city-wide spread of language cafes, where keen linguists of all abilities meet to exchange conversation in one of a dozen different tongues.French, Spanish, and Italian sessions are held weekly at Bia Bistrot, and Morningside Living went along for an hour-long ‘yak’ en Français.Despite the obviously gaps in our three-strong group’s collective vocabulary, the tutor, Willy, made every attempt to facilitate a flowing conversation rather than nit-pick over

inaccuracies. Given the opportunity during a momentary break in conversation, he would, however, grace us with interesting new words - but only at a rate where it was possible to process each and note the spelling. Willy, who was instantly likeable and of a cheerful disposition, steered the conversation from fireworks to swimming via American food, and all the while that Standard Grade and Higher French flooding back into my mind.In a natural and relaxed setting (Bia’s range of alcoholic beverages can also help to instill the confidence required to blurt out your next offering to the discussion!), becoming immersed in a language that had become temporarily lost to me was a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience. So much so, I plan to perform an encore!Visit www.yaketyyak-languagecafe.co.uk for information on the full range of languages, times and venues. AST

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Re-learn a language

Improve your foreign language conversation skills in relaxed, friendly local cafes, in small groups with experienced tutors

For information, call 07826 555 134 or visit www.yaketyyak-languagecafe.co.uk

Drop in a yak with us! No need to book!

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11 Colinton Road, Edinburgh ■ 0131 629 0941 ■ www.spektakular.co.uk

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Fighting fit!We look at the gentler alternatives to getting fit fast

+ HypnotherapyStop smoking, lose weight — make that change in 2014!

Well backedHow the Alexander Technique can help beat back pain

Pearly whitesMake that white Christmas come true with teeth whitening»

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If your new year’s resolution is to get fit and healthy but you have somewhat of a short attention

span when it comes to exercise, make sure you choose a class that really interests you so you don’t get bored and quit after a few weeks.Whether it be taking up a new hobby such as salsa dancing or joining an aerobics class with a group of friends so that you can have a good catch-up whilst shedding the pounds, make sure and do something you know you’ll genuinely enjoy.With so many great classes available in Morningside, locals really are spoilt for choice. We found out more about a few of the great classes currently being run in the area.Fitness League classes take place on Wednesdays at 10am

in The Cluny Centre. This class is specifically designed for those over 50 and is a blend of dance, yoga and core strengthening. “Ten years ago, I walked into a Fitness League class and I enjoyed it so much that I trained as a teacher,” explains former Chemistry teacher Sally

“Each class is designed to mobilise joints, strenthen muscles, and work on posture”

— Sally Floyd

Floyd, who runs the classes. “Each class is a mixture of dancing and exercise designed to mobilize joints, strengthen muscles and work on posture and central control.“Laughter is a big part of the class too — as well as a trip to the Leaf and Bean for a coffee afterwards!”

Pilates is a body conditioning routine that can aid in flexibility, muscle strength, balance and posture. As Pilates is such a gentle form of exercise, it’s a great option for those looking to make a lifestyle change.“Classes are one hour long and you will use equipment such as pilates rings and bands during them. Each class is grouped by ability, so you don’t need to worry if you’ve never done Pilates before,” explains Mark Finnigan, who teaches Pilates at Morningside Parish Church Hall at 9:30am on Monday mornings.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

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Clinical Hypnosis is a goal directed therapy which can be used to help

people stop smoking, manage their weight, break unwanted habits, or overcome phobias.If you’re thinking about making a big lifestyle change in the New Year, it could really help you to do so effectively. “During Clinical Hypnosis, clients enter a trance state which is usually accessed by relaxation,” explains Fiona Laing, who has been working as a qualified Clinical Hypnotherapist for more than seven years.“Through this altered state of consciousness, unwanted

habits can be removed, changes in thoughts and behaviours can be made. As long as it is carried out by a professionally trained therapist, it is safe and effective and the hypnotherapist doesn’t have any power to make the client do anything they don’t want to.”Some conditions benefit from Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy which includes more talking therapy so by working with the therapist, clients can identify and move on from unhelpful beliefs that are holding them back.To book an appointment or to find out more, contact Fiona on 0131 447 0559.

Shake off those bad old habits!“Through an altered state of consciousness, unwanted habits can be removed, changes in thoughts and behaviours can be made”

— Fiona Laing

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As a self-confessed coffee addict, I’ve always envied people with gleaming

white smiles. Whilst I’ve been lucky enough to always have relatively healthy teeth, my love of coffee has left me with some staining which I have grown to be very self-conscious of.In my seemingly never-ending quest to remove these, I’ve tried everything from whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes to traditional homemade remedies such as baking soda mixed with water. While these have yielded contrasting results, I decided I wanted to get my teeth professionally whitened for the upcoming Christmas party season. I can’t think of a better fashion accessory than a bright white smile!

After thoroughly researching all my options online, I decided that the Philips Zoom! method would be the best choice for me as it is quick, safe and available at Morningside Dental Clinic. I had heard some urban

myths about how painful the procedure can be so was

understandably a little bit nervous when I turned

up for my afternoon appointment with David Kilroy (pictured, left), who runs the practice. David explained that, as new

Joy of a white Christmas!Amy Anderson finds teeth-whitening perfect for the party season

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legislation dictates the amount of peroxide used during the treatment is capped, few people now experience pain during or after the procedure. He also gave me the opportunity to ask any questions and explained the process in great detail which really put my mind at ease.I was then given a thorough scale and polish to remove any build-up of plaque to ensure the whitening effects were even.Next, David isolated my teeth and covered them in the Zoom! whitening gel before exposing them to a special LED light for fifteen minutes at a time. This process was repeated a total of four times and the entire treatment took around two hours to complete. I was really surprised to experience no pain whatsoever and actually

Joy of a white Christmas!Amy Anderson finds teeth-whitening perfect for the party season

Morningside Dental Clinic is openMonday to Friday from 8am-5pm.To book an initial consultation,

call 0131 447 6431 or visit www.morningsidedentist.co.uk

found the experience to be quite relaxing. David constantly checked that I was okay and I would have felt completely comfortable alerting him had I felt any pain.Once the gel was removed, my teeth were cleaned and I was instantly impressed with the results. My teeth, which had become quite

yellow over the years, looked bright and incredibly clean and I have honestly never felt so confident with my smile. The color is very natural and doesn’t look artificial at all.As part of the service at Morningside Dental Clinic, I was also given some whitening gel and custom-made take home trays to prolong the effects of the treatment. These are incredibly easy-to-use and apparently the results will last for around two years. I wish I had tried Zoom! tooth whitening earlier instead of wasting so much money on at-home remedies.Zoom teeth whitening at Morningside Dental Clinic costs £350 and includes take-home whitening trays. AA

“My teeth looked bright and incredibly clean, and I have never felt so confident”

— Amy Anderson

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If there never seems to be enough hours in the day and the stresses of life are constantly

getting you down, then the fast-approaching New Year is the perfect time to take back control of your life.One way to do this a through Alexander Technique - a method of changing your habits through gentle, hands-on guidance.“Alexander Technique is a unique form of mind training that is incredibly effective at helping calm both the mind and body,” explains Sandra Riddell, who teaches the Technique from her Craighouse flat. “It aims to re-teach the natural ease and freedom of movement we had as children and can result in increased flexibility, relief from backache and improved performance in activities such as sports. I initially tried Alexander

Technique after suffering from knee and foot pain and was so impressed with the results that I decided to train as a teacher.”“It took me about six months to learn Alexander Technique,” explains John, who decided to learn the Technique after suffering from chronic back pain. “I knew that I was sitting and walking badly, which didn’t help, but I didn’t know how to change. Sandra’s clear and structured explanations of the natural use of our bones and muscles in movement enabled me to gradually become more aware of my own tensions, and to unwind and re-balance my mind and body.”Alexander Technique lessons with Sandra Riddell take place at 2/5 Meadowspot. For more information or details of how to book, visit www.alextechedin.co.uk or call Sandra on 0131 446 3663.

A new way to take control

“It’s a unique form of mind training that is incredibly effective at calming the mind and body”

— Sandra Riddell

Learn to take better care of yourself with the

Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique will teach you how to move through life with less tension and greater wellbeing.

“Lessons in the Alexander Technique have long-term benefits for chronic back pain”— results of clinical research study: BMJ 2008.

To book an introductory lesson at a special discounted rate for readers of Morningside Living, or find out about group classes or gift vouchers, contact Sandra Riddell MSTAT

07879 635 852 ● sandra@alextechedin.co.uk ● www.alextechedin.co.uk

Would you like to find a way to...● Relieve backache and other aches and pains?● Rebuild strength, flexibility and ease of movement?● Improve your posture?● Prevent or reduce damage caused by activities such as computer use, driving, gardening?● Improve performance in music and sport?● Deal better with stressful situations?

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Winter at the wheelA specialist course on how to tackle the elements

HEALTH & WELLBEING

“Some people are used to driving in the rain but are scared of the snow, while others try and avoid driving in winter altogether”

— Ashley Anderson

If battling through rain and snow in the car is your idea of an absolute nightmare, then

consider booking yourself in for an “Adverse Weather Conditions” driving lesson with Buckstone School of Motoring.Winter driving is a source of stress for thousands of people every year and these unique refresher lessons are designed to help existing drivers build up their confidence of driving in the winter and in challenging conditions so they feel safe and comfortable controlling their car.“It’s important for you to change the way you drive during the winter months as the weather can be so unpredictable,” explains Ashley Anderson, who owns Buckstone School of Motoring and has been working as a qualified driving instructor in Edinburgh for over 17 years.“Snow, ice, heavy rain, fog and high winds are very challenging conditions to drive in so it’s important to adapt your driving

style accordingly. Refresher lessons can help teach you different

techniques, which you can call upon when the weather takes an unexpected turn so you aren’t caught off-guard.“Each lesson is designed to suit

the needs of that individual. Some people are used to driving in the rain but are scared of the snow whilst others usually try and avoid driving in the winter months altogether,” continues Ashley.“It’s very important to keep your car well maintained all year round but even more so in winter,” adds Ashley. “Be sure to check your exterior lights, tyres and wiper blades for damage before setting off on a journey. Also make sure you have enough screen wash and remove all snow from the top of your car before leaving home because, if you don’t, breaking sharply could cause it to fall onto your windscreen and hinder your vision.”Refresher driving lessons last for one hour each and cost £25. They are available both during the day in the evenings and can be taken either in your own car or in Ashley’s car, which has dual-controls.For more information, call Ashley on 0131 445 4707 or 07761614559.

HOME & GARDEN

EH10 propertyWillie Hunter: local owners are in a strong position

+ Vital statisticsHow Morningside property compares to the rest of the city

Home truthsLooking after your vulnerable neighbour during winter

On the marketA selection of some of the finest property money can buy »

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There have been a lot of very positive things written and said about the property

market in general over the past few weeks, writes Willie Hunter.So, I thought it might be interesting to establish whether this is just lazy journalism or whether there is indeed some evidence of a resurgence of the residential market.There is no doubt that the number of home sales has increased markedly, with the rate of growth increasing as the year has progressed.ESPC statistics confirm that,

through the first nine months of the year, the number of sales for the whole of Edinburgh rose by 17 per cent annually. More significantly, during the third quarter of the year, sales were 45 per cent higher than in 2012.As yet, however, the rise in sales has not translated into a growth in the average house price. During the third quarter of the year the average house price in Edinburgh rose by 0.3 per cent annually to £212,429.I recently visited a two-bedroom flat in the Springvalley area of Morningside. The flat had been purchased just two years ago.

Many of us hate it when the weather is cold, the days shorten and it gets wetter

or even slippier underfoot , writes Veronica Robertson.But for those living among us in our community here in Morningside with mobility problems, this can mean becoming completely housebound for indefinite periods.Many are looked after well over the festive season when families and friends are available and able, but winter can be a long, drawn-out period for those not able to get out and about during those months.Issues particularly with keeping warm, getting in food and provisions and collection of essential medication can be some of the most common problems.Families and friends in this day are often far more remote than in times gone by, and may not even be aware of a need building in a vulnerable person’s life. We can all do our bit this winter by ensuring we• Know who the people are around us who may need help• If possible, know who to contact if an emergency arises• Keep an eye open for possible problems developing• Think ahead how we could help, particularly in difficult weather conditions

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Capital gainsWillie Hunter of Hunters Residential explains

that the property market in EH10 is on the up

Home truths in wintertime

When I looked at the historic evidence of sales in the street, I saw that my client had in fact purchased the flat for less than the asking price, as indeed did each of the next seven purchasers after her. This is clear evidence that it was very much a buyers’ market two years ago.However, a quick look at the last eight sales in Springvalley reveals that, in every case, the sale price was higher than the asking price, so clearly sellers in Morningside are now in a much stronger position.If you need further evidence of the attraction of the EH10 market

then I need only look at the ESPC website activity. Properties in Morningside are currently receiving an average of about 350 views of property details each per week, which compares very favourably to the Edinburgh-wide average of just more than 240 per week per property.In addition, properties sold in Morningside during the first seven months of 2013 have achieved an average of 98.1 per cent of their original Home Report valuation. This compares favourably to the Edinburgh-wide figure of 96.4 per cent.At Hunters, we put eight new

HOME & GARDEN

properties on the market in a single week at the start of November, so the market is as active now as it has been at any point of the year. Things are definitely looking up!If you would like to discuss any of the above or if you would like me to come out personally to discuss the possible sale of your own property, please feel free to give me a ring on my direct dial number: 0131 446 2346.● If there are any property topics that you would like Willie Hunter to cover in the next edition of Morningside Living, simply send details to livingmag@email.com

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Capital gainsWillie Hunter of Hunters Residential explains

that the property market in EH10 is on the up

“Properties in Morningside are currently receiving an average of 350 views per week, compared to 250 in the rest of Edinburgh”

— Willie Hunter

Forming part of an exclusive modern development and with superb views onto tranquil woodland, 35/6 Easter Steil is an immaculate 3-bedroom second floor apartment sold complete with a garage.● Sitting room with bay window, kitchen● Dining room/bedroom 3, bedroom 2, family bathroom● Master bedroom with en-suite and balcony● Gas central heating, double glazingViewing: Sunday 2-4pm or by appointment through selling agents on 0131 447 4747

Offers over£280,000

35/6 Easter SteilGlenlockhart

A very well presented ground floor flat set in a fine Victorian crescent in one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious and sought after residential areas only a few minutes’ walk from the busy thoroughfare of Bruntsfield.● Bay window lounge with feature fireplace and original cornicing● Galley style kitchen, dining hall, gas central heating● Two double bedrooms, family bathroom● Direct access to communal rear gardenViewing: Sunday 2-4pm or by appointment through selling agents on 0131 447 4747

Offers over£205,000

20 PF1 Mardale CrescentMerchiston

0131 447 4747huntersresidential.co.uk

West End & Morningsideemail: enquiries@huntersresidential.co.uk

A beautifully presented family house situated in a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly desirable residential area of Colinton. Built by the highly acclaimed developers Mactaggart and Mickel the owners have within the last two years refurbished the fully fitted kitchen, family bathroom and downstairs cloakroom.● Lounge with fireplace, dining room, utility room● Family room with French doors, kitchen, w.c● Master bedroom and guest bedroom with en-suites● 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom, rear garden, double garageViewing: by appointment through selling agents on 0131 447 4747

Offers over£656,000

24 Fernielaw AvenueColinton

Magnificent B listed semi-detached Victorian house sitting in the heart of the prestigious conservation area of Morningside and offering substantial, versatile family accommodation.● Bay window drawing room with feature fireplace● Separate sitting room with French doors to back garden● Dining room, breakfasting kitchen, 4 bedrooms, w.c● Driveway and garage, south-facing back gardenViewing: Sunday 2-4pm or by appointment through selling agents on 0131 447 4747

Offers over£900,000

6 Nile GroveMorningside S

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